IN CONVERSATION WITH BEN L’ONCLE SOUL

Ben L’Oncle Soul is a French soul artist known for his smooth voice, heartfelt lyrics, and unique mix of soul, R&B, and blues. With hit songs, platinum albums, and performances at festivals like Glastonbury, he’s built a strong global following. Now, he’s back with SAD GENERATION, a powerful new album full of emotion, honesty, and fresh sounds.

SAD GENERATION blends different styles like soul, blues, and R&B. Can you tell us how you created this unique sound?

I worked with two incredibly talented producers, Amarah and Bastien Cabezon. We combined vintage techniques and gear with a modern touch to create a sound that feels both timeless and fresh.

Your music touches on themes like love and heartbreak. Which song on SAD GENERATION is the most personal to you?

They all reflect personal experiences, but BY YOUR SIDE is especially meaningful. It’s about my relationship with my daughter and how becoming a father has changed the way I feel and see the world.

You’ve been influenced by artists like Sly Stone and Funkadelic. How do you think these influences show up in your new album?

You can hear it in the grooves, the melodies... I’ve always admired Sly, especially since If You Want Me to Stay. His attitude, his style, the way he tells his truth. And Bootsy? I love the way he makes the bass speak.

I’M GØØD critiques social media and digital validation. How do you handle these challenges in your own life?

I use it to share things I discover, little updates—only good vibes. I don’t debate, don’t criticize, and I definitely don’t post what I had for breakfast. I’ve got real friends for those conversations.

Your sound has changed over the years. How do you think your music has evolved since your first album?

Each album has its own sound because I love working with different producers and exploring new vibes. But what stays constant is my passion for soul and R&B. That’s the heart of it all.

The song YØUR HAND IN MINE is a love letter to your daughter. What inspired you to write this song?

Time flies. Her little hand won’t stay that small forever. I wanted to capture that fleeting moment, just holding her hand feels like time stands still. I never want to forget that feeling.

You’ve performed at huge festivals like Glastonbury. How is performing live different from recording music in the studio?

I've never been to Glastonbury, it's a legend that I love tho. The studio is more of a laboratory, the stage of the vaccine. Sharing with people what you have worked hard for is the best feeling.

After all your success, what do you hope people will feel or think after listening to SAD GENERATION?

I just hope it brings people joy, peace, and maybe a little light in this world. That’s really all I could ask for.